The ACE Mentor Program of Nashville, Tennessee introduces high school students to exciting careers in the architectural, construction management and engineering professions, and supports their higher education goals through merit-based scholarships. We currently serve Davidson, Williamson and Rutherford counties.

We started our program in 2002 with 40 students from three schools. The students were organized into three teams and mentored by professionals from 15 firms. We now reach more than 100 students each year with 80 dedicated professionals mentoring ten teams. Over $400,000 in scholarship funds have been awarded to Middle Tennessee students since the affiliate was founded.

Due to the tremendous demand for the program, we are always actively recruiting and training new mentors so we can continue to engage more young people in our region.

Nashville Public Television Spotlights Work of Nashville Affiliate, December 9

Program Overview

Teams of 12-18 students are paired with diverse groups of industry mentors to explore the fields of architecture, construction and engineering. Students learn what a “day in the life” looks like for each profession and they actively participate in a hands-on demonstrations of a related skill. Students also work together to design a final project that aligns with a pre-determined theme. Past design themes include resilience, gathering, shelter, and community.

Additionally, student teams have the opportunity to tour construction and renovation sites for major projects, such as the Music City Center, Columbia State Community College – Williamson County Campus, and Schermerhorn Symphony Center. They also get to participate in collaborative challenges such as bricklaying and testing concrete cylinders.

Each year, the Nashville program culminates with a banquet at which students present their projects to approximately 500 peers, parents mentors, educators and community leaders. Keynote speakers have included the governor of Tennessee, the mayor of Nashville and major professional sports figures.